Hamish Stanhope · on 15 August 2026 · 11 min read · Last reviewed 15 August 2026
Overnight oats apple cinnamon is a variation of Bircher muesli, a cold breakfast dish made by soaking oats, grated apple, lemon juice, and nuts in milk or yoghurt overnight.
This combination creates a creamy, crunchy, and slightly tart breakfast that requires no cooking and can be customised with various toppings.
- The dish is named after Swiss physician Maximillian Bircher-Brenner, who developed it in the early 20th century as part of a healthy diet for his patients.
- Overnight oats apple cinnamon typically contains rolled oats, grated apple, cinnamon, milk or yoghurt, and a sweetener such as honey or maple syrup.
- The mixture is left to soak in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the oats to soften and absorb the liquid.
- The dish is often topped with chopped nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit before serving.
What is the difference between Bircher muesli and muesli?
The key difference between Bircher muesli and traditional muesli lies in the preparation and ingredients.
Bircher muesli is made by soaking rolled oats, grated apple, lemon juice, and nuts in milk or yoghurt overnight. This process softens the oats and allows them to absorb the liquid, creating a creamy texture. Traditional muesli, on the other hand, is a dry mixture of rolled oats, grains, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, which is typically eaten with milk or yoghurt.
Bircher muesli is often considered to be more digestible and nutritious than traditional muesli, as the soaking process helps to break down the oats and release their nutrients. It also has a longer shelf life, as the acidic environment created by the lemon juice helps to preserve the mixture.
In the UK, Bircher muesli is often served with a dollop of yoghurt and fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced banana. Some variations may also include spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup.
Is Bircher muesli a healthy breakfast?
Bircher muesli is generally considered to be a healthy breakfast option, as it is high in fibre, protein, and healthy fats.
The rolled oats in Bircher muesli are a good source of soluble fibre, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve digestive health. The grated apple provides a source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the nuts and seeds provide healthy fats and additional vitamins and minerals.
Soaking enhances Bircher muesli’s nutritional value during preparation. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, soaking oats in water or milk for at least 12 hours can increase their antioxidant activity and improve their digestibility.
However, the healthiness of Bircher muesli can vary depending on the ingredients used and the portion size. Adding large amounts of sugar or honey can increase the calorie content of the dish, while using full-fat milk or yoghurt can increase its saturated fat content.
How to make perfect Bircher muesli?
To make perfect Bircher muesli, start with rolled oats, grated apple, lemon juice, and chopped nuts.
Mix 1/2 cup of rolled oats with 1/2 cup of grated apple, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/4 cup of chopped nuts in a bowl. Add 1/2 cup of milk or yoghurt and mix well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
When ready to serve, stir the mixture well and add additional milk or yoghurt if desired. Top with chopped nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit. Some popular topping options include sliced banana, berries, or a drizzle of honey.
Perfect Bircher muesli requires the right ratio of oats to liquid. If the mixture is too dry, add more milk or yoghurt. If it is too wet, add more oats or grated apple.
What is Jamie Oliver’s best Bircher muesli recipe?
Jamie Oliver, a well-known British chef and restaurateur, has shared several Bircher muesli recipes over the years.
One of his most popular recipes includes mixing 100g of rolled oats with 2 grated apples, the juice of 1 lemon, 50g of mixed nuts, 250ml of milk or yoghurt, and 1 tablespoon of honey. The mixture is left to soak in the refrigerator overnight and served with fresh fruit and a dollop of yoghurt.
Oliver’s recipes often incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as herbs and spices, to create unique and flavourful dishes. In his Bircher muesli recipe, he suggests using seasonal fruits such as berries or stone fruits to add flavour and nutrition.
Oliver is also known for his emphasis on using fresh, high-quality ingredients in his cooking. In his Bircher muesli recipe, he recommends using organic rolled oats and fresh, locally-sourced fruit whenever possible.
Bircher muesli origin
Bircher muesli was developed by Swiss physician Maximillian Bircher-Brenner in the early 20th century.
Bircher-Brenner created the dish as part of a healthy diet for his patients at the Liebefeld Sanatorium in Switzerland. The original recipe consisted of just apples, nuts, and oats, but it has since evolved to include a variety of ingredients and toppings.
Today, it is a popular breakfast option in the UK and around the world. Bircher muesli gained popularity in the UK in the 1960s and 1970s, as part of the broader interest in healthy eating and natural foods.
Bircher muesli benefits
Bircher muesli offers several health benefits, making it a popular breakfast option for those looking to start their day with a nutritious meal.
Bircher muesli’s high fibre content can help to improve digestive health and promote feelings of fullness, which can aid in weight management. The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fibre in the dish can also help to stabilise blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy throughout the morning.
According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, consuming oats can help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The antioxidants found in apples and nuts can also help to protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
In addition to its physical health benefits, Bircher muesli can also have positive effects on mental health. The combination of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein in the dish can help to improve mood and cognitive function.
Bircher muesli pronunciation
Bircher muesli is pronounced “beer-ker mwew-slee”.
Maximillian Bircher-Brenner, a Swiss physician, created the name from the German word “muesli,” meaning “mixture.
It is important to note that the pronunciation of Bircher muesli can be confusing for non-native English speakers, as the name contains a combination of English and German words. To avoid confusion, it may be helpful to spell out the name or provide a pronunciation guide when introducing the dish to others.
Bircher muesli vs overnight oats
Bircher muesli and overnight oats are similar in that they both involve soaking oats in liquid overnight, but there are some key differences between the two.
Bircher muesli typically includes grated apple, lemon juice, and nuts, while overnight oats can be made with a variety of ingredients such as milk, yoghurt, fruit, and sweeteners. Bircher muesli also tends to be more dense and chewy, due to the addition of grated apple and nuts, while overnight oats are typically lighter and creamier.
In the UK, Bircher muesli is often served with a dollop of yoghurt and fresh fruit, while overnight oats may be topped with nut butter, chia seeds, or granola. Some variations of overnight oats may also include protein powder or other supplements to boost their nutritional value.
Bircher muesli recipe UK
A traditional Bircher muesli recipe in the UK includes rolled oats, grated apple, lemon juice, chopped nuts, milk or yoghurt, and a sweetener such as honey or maple syrup.
To make this recipe, mix 1/2 cup of rolled oats with 1/2 cup of grated apple, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/4 cup of chopped nuts in a bowl. Add 1/2 cup of milk or yoghurt and mix well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
When ready to serve, stir the mixture well and add additional milk or yoghurt if desired. Top with chopped nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit. Some popular topping options in the UK include sliced banana, berries, or a drizzle of honey.
According to a survey conducted by the UK-based grocery delivery service Ocado, Bircher muesli is one of the most popular breakfast options in the UK, with sales of muesli and granola increasing by 20% in 2020.
Ingredients
Rolled oats form the base of overnight oats apple cinnamon, combined with grated apple, cinnamon, milk or yoghurt, and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
The rolled oats provide a source of complex carbohydrates and fibre, while the grated apple adds natural sweetness and a source of vitamin C. The cinnamon adds warmth and flavour, while the milk or yoghurt provides protein and healthy fats. The sweetener can be adjusted to taste, but using natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup can help to enhance the nutritional value of the dish.
In addition to these key ingredients, overnight oats apple cinnamon can be customised with a variety of toppings such as chopped nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit. Some popular topping options include sliced almonds, chia seeds, or berries. The toppings can be added before or after the oats have soaked overnight, depending on personal preference.
Nutrition
Overnight oats apple cinnamon is a nutritious breakfast option that provides a balance of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
A typical serving of overnight oats apple cinnamon contains around 300-400 calories, with 8-10 grams of protein, 5-7 grams of fat, and 50-60 grams of carbohydrates. The exact nutritional content can vary depending on the ingredients used and the portion size.
The rolled oats in the dish provide a source of soluble fibre, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve digestive health. The grated apple provides a source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the cinnamon has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to regulate blood sugar levels.
The milk or yoghurt used in the dish provides a source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health. The toppings added to the dish can also provide additional vitamins and minerals, depending on the specific ingredients used.
Method
To make overnight oats apple cinnamon, mix 1/2 cup of rolled oats with 1/2 cup of grated apple, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 cup of milk or yoghurt, and 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup in a bowl.
Stir the mixture well to combine, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. When ready to serve, stir the mixture well and add additional milk or yoghurt if desired. Top with chopped nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit.
For a variation on this recipe, try adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the mixture before refrigerating. This can help to boost the protein content of the dish and make it more filling and satisfying.
Overall rating
Apple cinnamon overnight oats is a popular breakfast option that has received positive reviews from both health experts and home cooks.
The dish is praised for its simplicity, versatility, and nutritional value, with many reviewers noting that it is an easy and convenient way to start the day with a healthy meal. The combination of creamy oats, sweet apple, and warm cinnamon is also highly rated for its flavour and texture.
According to a survey conducted by the UK-based health and wellness website happyhannah, Bircher muesli is one of the most popular breakfast options among health-conscious consumers, with 68% of respondents rating it as their favourite breakfast choice.
Happyhannah
Happyhannah is a UK-based health and wellness website that provides recipes, nutrition advice, and fitness tips for women.
In addition to its recipe collection, the website also offers a range of online courses and coaching programmes, as well as a community forum where members can connect and support each other. The website was founded by Clare McIntosh, a qualified nutritionist and personal trainer, who is passionate about helping women to live healthier, happier lives.
Happyhannah has received positive reviews from both health experts and consumers, with many praising the website’s practical, no-nonsense approach to health and wellness. The website’s recipes are also highly rated for their simplicity, flavour, and nutritional value.
AudreyNorman
AudreyNorman is a UK-based food blogger and recipe developer who specialises in healthy, plant-based recipes.
Audrey’s blog features a range of recipes, including breakfast dishes such as overnight oats apple cinnamon, as well as lunches, dinners, and snacks. Her recipes are highly rated for their flavour, creativity, and nutritional value, with many reviewers noting that they are both delicious and good for you.
In addition to her blog, Audrey is also a published author, with several cookbooks to her name. She is passionate about promoting healthy eating and sustainable living, and her recipes often feature seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.
Anaholdenpeters23438
Anaholdenpeters23438 is a UK-based food blogger who shares recipes and cooking tips on her Instagram account.
Ana’s Instagram account features a range of recipes, including overnight oats apple cinnamon, as well as other breakfast dishes, lunches, dinners, and snacks. Her recipes are highly rated for their simplicity, flavour, and presentation, with many reviewers noting that they are both delicious and visually appealing.
In addition to her Instagram account, Ana is also a qualified nutritionist and personal trainer, and she often shares nutrition and fitness advice on her social media channels. She is passionate about promoting healthy eating and active living, and her recipes often feature nutrient-dense ingredients and balanced macronutrients.
To make overnight oats apple cinnamon, start by choosing the right ingredients and following the proper method. Customise the dish with your favourite toppings and enjoy a nutritious and delicious breakfast that will keep you feeling full and energised throughout the morning.
Frequently asked questions
Why soak oats overnight for this recipe?
Soaking oats overnight softens them, making them easier to digest and creating a creamy texture. This method also allows the flavors of apples and cinnamon to meld, enhancing the taste. Overnight soaking also activates beneficial enzymes in the oats.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but steel-cut oats require longer soaking times, typically 8-12 hours. They hold their shape better but may need extra liquid. Rolled oats absorb liquid faster and work well with the standard overnight soaking time of 6-8 hours.
How do I prevent the mixture from becoming too watery?
Use a 1:1 ratio of liquid to oats by volume. For example, 1 cup of oats to 1 cup of milk or yogurt. Adjust based on your preferred consistency. Adding thicker ingredients like Greek yogurt or chia seeds can help absorb excess liquid.
What’s the best way to store overnight oats?
Store overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before eating, as separation can occur. For longer storage, freeze individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge before consuming.